Carotid baroreflex sensitivity and physical fitness in cycling tourists

Carotid baroreceptors were stimulated with neck suction in 47 healthy subjects. Pulse interval lengthening was measured and the time course of the response was evaluated. Eight intensities of neck chamber suction were applied to select a criterion for computing the “RR response” that gives a significant linear relationship with the magnitude of the stimuli in the highest number of individuals. The best criterion was the maximal RR prolongation within 5 seconds after the onset of the stimulus. The slope of this relationship was defined as baroreflex sensitivity.